Search the scriptures, you know which one, the one that says, when I was like a child...but when I became a man, I put away childish things. That one. I have always considered this one a personal favorite. From a developmental lense, it suggests the importance of recognizing our milestone from child to adult, the unique beauty it holds for us, and our journey on this plane. From a spiritual lense, it captures the significance of personal responsibility, from the choices we make to goals we accomplish and have yet to dream of.
Now, today, as I continue to usher in new phases of my own life, and watch others on the quest to "get it right," in their second half of life, I am left wondering. Should we put away ALL childish things? I observe and speak to others through my practice, daily ministry etc., and one theme constantly emerges...peace comes when we hold on to those things that we find dear within us, the child in us. I often hear myself saying aloud and in silence "to see life through the eyes of a child." God wanting us to have childlike innocence, in psychological terms, we refer to it as getting in touch with your "inner child." It is the same concept, when we will loose our ability to see life in all of it's curious complexities, and allow roots of bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness to build up on the inside of us, we have lost touch with that which makes life exciting and new every morning.
The childlike innocence so often sought, is done so for a reason, judgement is washed away, all things become new, every moment holds a new discovery, experience, sensation to behold. Sadness lasts but a moment, joy does not come in the morning...it comes in the next moment. All is forgiven.
A child will be hurt by someone they love, and love harder. They will fall and get back up, and not point the finger at someone else for years as to why they fell. They sit in sand and play with children of other colors and races, seeing their diversity as interesting not invasive or dangerous or threatening. They take pause to acknowledge new things, questions, questions, curioisty is mandatory, and overflowing, not stunted or limited by circumstances.
Most importantly, they will always try, and try and try, until they are discouraged from doing so. The spirit of a child is only broken when they are told of their limitations.
I believe that the answer is no, we should not put away all childish things, some things yes, but the problem occurs, when we loose sight of those things that can still be of value to us as adults...curiosity, forgiveness, letting go of limitations.
Who would you be if you did not put away all of your childish things?
I look forward to your introspection in the blogosphere:-)
Be great, be kind, be blessed.
ClinicalTonya
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